Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Thailand is making strong moves toward building a more united, people-focused Southeast Asia. At the 46th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra represented the country in a series of high-level discussions that tackled some of the region’s most urgent issues — from climate change and digital challenges to youth development and economic cooperation.
A Focus on the Future: Inclusivity and Sustainability
The summit brought together leaders from all 10 ASEAN countries under Malaysia’s chairmanship, with this year’s theme centered on “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” Thailand echoed this vision, calling for stronger cooperation to build a peaceful, secure, and sustainable ASEAN. The Thai delegation emphasized urgent priorities like renewable energy, disaster preparedness, cross-border pollution control, and climate action.
Thailand also stressed the importance of human security — a term that covers everything from safety in communities to protecting people from issues like cybercrime and environmental threats.
Youth at the Heart of ASEAN’s Vision
A major highlight for Thailand was the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN Youth, where Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa highlighted the crucial role young people play in shaping the region’s future.
Thailand urged ASEAN to:
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Invest more in youth development programs
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Support lifelong learning and equal access to quality education
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Give young people a more active voice in digital and climate policy
For younger generations, this is a sign that ASEAN leaders are paying attention to the concerns of Gen Z and future-forward thinkers — especially when it comes to jobs, education, tech, and the environment.
ASEAN Vision 2045: A Roadmap for the Next 20 Years
Another key milestone was the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2045, witnessed by Foreign Minister Maris. This declaration lays out a long-term vision and strategy to make ASEAN more resilient, innovative, and people-centered by 2045.
It focuses on:
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Political and security cooperation
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Economic growth
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Social and cultural development
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Better connectivity across the region
This roadmap reflects ASEAN’s plan to stay strong and relevant in a fast-changing global landscape — while putting people first.
Strengthening Ties with the Philippines
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for a bilateral meeting. Both leaders agreed to boost trade, investment, and tourism between Thailand and the Philippines.
Key takeaways from the meeting:
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Thailand is ready to export more agricultural products to the Philippines.
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Thai companies are encouraged to invest in Philippine agriculture and energy sectors.
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Both countries will step up joint efforts to fight online scams and human trafficking.
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A future official visit by PM Paetongtarn to the Philippines is now on the books.
Why It Matters for You
Whether you’re a student, young professional, or someone interested in the future of Southeast Asia, the 46th ASEAN Summit shows that regional leaders are beginning to put people and planet first. From tackling online scams and pushing green energy to creating real opportunities for youth, the summit signals a shift toward more inclusive and future-focused policies.
The decisions made now will shape the Southeast Asia you live and work in tomorrow — and Thailand is making sure your voice is part of that conversation.